Wet Dry Animal Feeder Height Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wet/dry feeders for swine production lack adequate height adjustment and the ability to adjust feed mixtures within the feeder, restricting the efficiency of wet/dry feeding systems.
Innovation Solution
A feeder design featuring a height-adjusting mechanism for the shelf, movable gates, and a urine shield to prevent feed accumulation, allowing for adjustable feed distribution and easy transition between dry and wet feeding conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single adjustment mechanism with minimal height adjustment is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability of the feeder to different hog sizes and feeding preferences deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into multiple independent components: a first adjustment mechanism for vertical shelf position and a second adjustment mechanism for shelf angle. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be simpler while collectively providing comprehensive adaptability for different feeding conditions and hog sizes.
2Device complexity
If the shelf position is fixed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to accommodate different hog sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is transformed from a fixed position to a dynamic, adjustable position through the first adjustment mechanism that enables vertical movement. This allows the shelf to adapt to different hog sizes and feeding stages while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical implementation.
3Device complexity
If a single feed mixture in a common trough space is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide different feed conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The feed delivery system provides different local qualities: dry feed is delivered to the shelf for direct consumption, while wet feed is delivered to the trough for mixing with water. This local differentiation allows the same feeder to provide multiple feed conditions without requiring completely separate feeding systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances feeding efficiency by allowing for customizable feed presentation and easy adjustment to accommodate different hog sizes and feeding preferences, promoting faster growth and reduced feed waste.
Implementation Method 1
a height-adjusting mechanism configured to adjust the vertical position of the shelf relative the hopper and the trough
Implementation Method 2
Each gate is movable in a vertical direction to increase or decrease the size of the opening between the shelf retainer and the feed platform
Implementation Method 3
the urine shield diverges from the front panel forming a cove that remains free of feed passing downward through the chute
Implementation Method 4
A water supply duct extends longitudinally of the trough and has a plurality of actuation nipples that can be actuated to deliver water into the trough
Data Source
AI summary
An animal feeder has a hopper for receiving feed, the hopper having converging front panels with lower ends defining an elongate chute through which feed is directed. A shield is attached to each of the front panels and diverges from the front panel forming a cove that remains free of feed. A trough extends along the feeder and a water supply duct delivers water into the trough. An elongate shelf has a feed platform for receiving feed from the hopper. The shelf is positioned above the trough such that any feed falling, falls into the trough. The shelf has shelf retainers running longitudinally of the shelf above the feed platform, each shelf retainer directed between its respective shield and front panel. A height-adjusting mechanism adjusts the vertical position of the shelf relative the hopper and the trough. As the shelf moves upward, the shelf retainer moves into the cove.